South America · field briefing

Brazil

Brasil

Brazil uses Type C / Type N power outlets at 127/220V, 60Hz. The general emergency number is 190 (police) / 192 (ambulance). Tap water quality varies — bottled water is recommended.

Last reviewed . Verify visa and entry rules with official authorities before travel.

Power
Type C/N / 127/220V
Emergency
190 (police) / 192 (ambulance)
Tap water
Use caution
Driving
Right side

01

Power & plugs

C N
Plug types
Type C, Type N
Voltage
127/220V
Frequency
60Hz

Brazil runs at 127/220V. Travelers from 100–127V regions (US, Japan) need a voltage converter for devices that aren't dual-voltage.

02

Emergency numbers

General
190 (police) / 192 (ambulance)
Police
190
Ambulance
192

03

Travel notes

Tap water

Tap water quality can vary. Bottled or filtered water is recommended, especially outside major cities.

Tipping

Restaurants in Brazil often add a 10% service charge to the bill. If it is included, extra tipping is optional. Small tips for hotel staff, guides and drivers are appreciated when service is helpful.

Best season

Brazil is regional: December to March is summer and beach high season, while May to September is often drier for the Pantanal and more comfortable for many city trips. Check local rainy seasons for the Amazon and northeast coast.

Visa basics

Visa requirements depend on nationality and can change with reciprocity rules. Some visitors are visa-exempt for tourism, while others need an e-visa or consular visa. Confirm with Brazil’s official consular or e-visa guidance before travel.

04

Before you go

  • ✓Pack a Type C/Type N plug adapter for Brazil.
  • ✓Brazil runs at 127/220V. Travelers from 100–127V regions (US, Japan) need a voltage converter for devices that aren't dual-voltage.
  • ✓Carry a refillable bottle and a filter, or buy bottled water outside major cities.
  • ✓Save the emergency number 190 (police) / 192 (ambulance) in your phone before you arrive.
  • ✓If you'll drive, remember traffic keeps to the right in Brazil.

Questions

Frequently asked

Can I drink tap water in Brazil?⌄

Use caution. Tap water in Brazil is not consistently safe — bottled water is recommended, especially outside major cities.

What power plug and voltage are used in Brazil?⌄

Brazil uses Type C, Type N plugs running at 127/220V, 60Hz. Brazil runs at 127/220V. Travelers from 100–127V regions (US, Japan) need a voltage converter for devices that aren't dual-voltage.

What is the emergency number in Brazil?⌄

Dial 190 (police) / 192 (ambulance) for general emergencies in Brazil. Police: 190. Ambulance: 192.

When is the best time to visit Brazil?⌄

Brazil is regional: December to March is summer and beach high season, while May to September is often drier for the Pantanal and more comfortable for many city trips. Check local rainy seasons for the Amazon and northeast coast.

Which side of the road do they drive on in Brazil?⌄

In Brazil, traffic drives on the right side of the road, so the steering wheel is on the left.

What is the country calling code for Brazil?⌄

The international dialing code for Brazil is +55. Dial this prefix after your exit code (e.g. 00 or +) to call a Brazil number from abroad.

Sources